A report on corruption risk in EU MS at national level using the UNODC CIMM Matrix

Despite Europe’s strong reputation for public integrity, corruption remains a persistent problem across Member States, candidate countries, and neighboring nations. This report, based on the UN's Statistical Framework to Measure Corruption, uses objective tools like the Index of Public Integrity, enforcement data, and regulation comprehensiveness. It shows that while anti-corruption technology and digital services have expanded, they are not sufficient to curb corruption. Countries with advanced digital tools still experience high levels of favoritism and non-competitive procurement, particularly in Poland, Romania, and Hungary. Similarly, comprehensive regulation—covering financial disclosures, political finance, conflicts of interest, and access to information—does not consistently lead to effective corruption control. Many countries with robust legal frameworks continue to struggle with enforcement and practical accountability. Corruption thrives where administrative discretion is high, while systemic issues such as weak judicial independence and restricted media freedom further undermine oversight. Economic crises and the pandemic have exacerbated corruption risks by increasing opportunities for the misuse of public funds. The report recommends shifting from reliance on laws and punishment to proactive measures, such as unified EU-wide risk tracking, a pan-European disbarment system, and real-time accountability mechanisms at the local procurement level.